The Mexican citrus area of San Buenaventura has lost 70% of its lime crop and 50% of its oranges due to frosts late last year and the bout of rain that followed, website Ecosdelacosta.com.mx reported.

The area's communal land holding representative Federico Valencia, told the website similar losses had been seen across all municipalities in the eastern part of the State of Mexico.

Valencia added the threat of citrus greening had increased fears for next year's production, with many fields left in poor condition due to the burning of trees to combat the disease, the story reported.

He said the municipalities have called on the state and federal governments for crisis assistance.

Around 2,000 hectares of citrus crops have been destroyed this season, which has led to higher prices in the local market.

www.freshfruitportal.com